Back in the Roaring Twenties, the Hôtel Bachaumont was at the heart of the social scene in the Montorgueil neighbourhood. The institution is named after another fixture of Paris society from the 18th Century; Louis Petit de Bachaumont was one of those gentlemen born into a noble family who spent all his time at parties in the many salons of the city, discussing risqué and censored art and literature, exchanging salacious gossip and indulging in the sort of lifestyle that only wealth allows.

Located by the bustling market in Les Halles and a magnet for the well-to-do, the Hôtel Bachaumont suffered when the market relocated. Now it’s back to its best following a major three-year restoration project by owner Samy Marciano and acclaimed designer Dorothée Meilichzon. Every aspect of the place now sparkles with renewed 20s elegance, starting with the stone façade and the decorative wrought iron entrance gate. A swathe of Carrara marble leads to the lobby through a hall of mirrors inspired by the one at Versailles. The smooth curves and sharp geometry of the Art Deco style appears throughout the public spaces and continues into the 49 guest rooms; bespoke furniture and fabrics from local craftsmen have been used. At the summit of Hôtel Bachaumont there are four suites with views of the Paris skyline, designed as artists studios.

Photography, Paul Bowyer